4 Overlooked Steps to Fighting COVID-19

Currently, our country has millions of people working from home due to the coronavirus pandemic. We’re all in our homes, practicing social distancing. As someone who has had malaria for over 24 years, I have learned to live effectively despite its threat to my wellness, success, and life. Whether you’re working from home, practicing social distancing, or quarantined, here are my tips to get through it.

1. Know Your Facts. There is currently no vaccine to prevent COVID-19. It’s important to understand that the best way to prevent illness is to avoid being exposed to the virus, it is spread from person-to-person. Here are some tips from the CDC:

• Coronavirus is spread by respiratory droplets (sneezing and coughing). So always stay 6 feet away from anyone outside your household (e.g. when grocery shopping or going out for a walk).
• Wash your hands with warm water and soap for at least 20 seconds if you’ve been in a public place. If that’s not available, use hand sanitizer that has at least 60% alcohol.
• Avoid touching your face.
• Limit trips outside your home, and encourage your household members to do the same. The virus can only stop spreading if as many people as possible isolate themselves in their homes and avoid contact with others outside of their homes.

2. Stay Nourished. Living in 23 countries taught me to view food as a way of medicine–not just for my tastebuds. Eating good foods and taking the proper supplements to take care of your immune system is key. Citrus fruits, red bell peppers, and garlic are great foods to boost your immune system. If you’re interested in taking vitamins try these: vitamin D, zinc, and vitamin C. Please keep in mind that no supplement will cure or prevent disease.

3. Keep Your Body Moving. Due to social distancing, it’s still vital that we go outside. We all need fresh air and need to dedicate part of our day to take in nature. In fact, even before water, oxygen is the most vital food of all. Whether it’s walking around the block or walking 5 miles, take as many steps as you can. Don’t feel guilty for exercising, (but please keep a 6-foot distance from others)! Get in your garden or do some yoga in the living room. Anything to keep your blood flowing.

4. Be Disciplined. Adhering to the first three recommended steps requires we be disciplined. Stick to a routine and follow throughout this trying time.

Though small, these steps are often very difficult for most of us to take.and maintain. This fight we are in with the coronavirus is an exercise of self-discipline. Embrace the challenge and save a life.